Code of Conduct

A Code of Conduct standards govern corporate and business practices according to ethical and legal standards. Each brand and importer can develop their own Code of Conduct standards for vendors to comply with, or they can adopt internationally recognised methods. Standards are usually customised to meet retailers’ requirements based on International Labor Organization requirements.

TÜV SÜD’s global network of auditors and inspectors can support you to implement a Code of Conduct that demonstrates your commitment to operate at the highest standards of ethics, exceeding legal minimums.

Consumers increasingly expect brands to demonstrate social responsibility right across the supply chain. By developing Code of Conduct standards that all your suppliers must follow, your business achieves multiple benefits:

• Ensure all workers throughout the supply chain are treated fairly and ethically.
• Become an attractive employer and increase employee retention.
• Improve your brand’s reputation, while avoiding negative press.
• Develop a competitive edge by demonstrating your ethical credentials to consumers.
• Achieve better workplace standards that can lead to higher productivity and increased profits.

TÜV SÜD’s worldwide network of experts delivers a range of auditing and Code of Conduct services in key global markets. We have a wealth of experience helping international businesses develop quality social compliance programmes and management systems across their supply chain. We work with you to create personalised Code of Conduct standards for your business or help to implement relevant existing standards.

We have expertise auditing and implementing against a wide range of systems such as:

• BSCI
• SA8000®
• ETI
• ISO 9001
• ISO 14001
• OHSAS 18001

As inspections and audits are one of our core businesses, we recognise the importance of ensuring that our inspectors and auditors are of the highest quality. Our strong client-oriented approach ensures excellent customer service and technical support. Our commitment to quality and safety is universally recognised around the world. We maintain a strict Code of Conduct for our inspectors and auditors to which they must all abide. This assures you of their independent and impartial expertise. In the event of a complaint with regards to any inspector or auditor, we will engage a third party, Ethics Point, to carry out a thorough investigation.